"I think I've been nominated for five years in a row and finally winning the award is amazing. I'm very happy as it is the fans who have given it to me - so I'm very appreciative," Toure told BBC Sport.

"It's a fantastic achievement because I don't think there has ever been as many quality African players in top-level international football as there are now: Aubameyang, Pitroipa, Mikel, Moses, Salomon Kalou, Gervinho... we have fantastic players.

"I also think African football is improving and that means a lot to us. And as an African, I'm very happy."